Tks to André Krakerker
Model Gabriela Maia, 20 years old, 1m71 tall, is the reigning Miss Itajaí and will compete for the title of Miss Santa Catarina 2009. The winner will represent the State in the Miss Brazil 2009 pageant.
What has changed in your life after you're selected as the new Miss Itajaí?
Now I feel responsible to represent my people's culture and be able to express it in a positive way. I see it as a chance to develop my personal as well social growth.
How do you prepare to compete for the Miss Santa Catarina pageant?
First I'm learning everything I can about the city I'm representing, so I can share that with the other contestants. And I'm also aware that I need to be in my best shape, so I'm doing everything to look my best.
Your city will host the State pageant. How do you feel about that?
I'm looking forward to that. I'm ready to welcome all the contestants and special guests and offer the best of our hospitality.
Your city was also heavily affected by the hard raining that devastated many sites in the State some days ago. How can you express that feeling?
Of course I feel sad but, at the same time, I'm relieved to see that there are many people in our country that care about other people's situation and were ready to help.
Do you have an idol, somebody that inspires you?
Not a particular one, but there are many people that inspire me and I try to learn the best from each one of them.
Modeling, studies, boyfriend... How do you handle it?
Well, there's time for everything, so I try not to mess it. As for my boyfriend, well, we spend weekends together.
Are you ready to take the responsability of being the new Miss Santa Catarina?
Yes, I am. I think it's the same kind of responsability of being Miss Itajaí, but on a large scale. The winner will need to be really focused and I think I'm ready to do it.